All eyes on Chirac as job law gets green light

FRANCE'S Constitutional Council yesterday signed off on a contested employment law that has sparked massive protests, leaving President Jacques Chirac with the tough decision of what to do next.

Mr Chirac can either promulgate the law championed by his prime minister - at the risk of further strikes and demonstrations - or seek a negotiated solution, perhaps by sending the law back to parliament or by proposing modifications.

Rarely had a decision by the council, which rules on the constitutionality of French laws, been so awaited.